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Ignition shortcuts??

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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 10:11 AM
  #1  
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From: The Big House
Ignition shortcuts??

My 1986 Bronco has a broken ignition that I have been starting with pliers on top of the column. (I took off the steering column cover) The key needs to be in and on to start the truck. It has finally stopped working and it turns over, but will not start! The battery is very strong, but it will not start. I want to get it started, but I don't want to replace the entire ignition. Can I bypass the switch or something? I just want a push button under the dash. I am sure you can tell by the way I phrased this question that I have not dealt with this before. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

THANKS!
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 01:06 PM
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I have noticed people are looking at my post, but no replies. Is there something else I can do to fix my problem besides a shortcut? What should it cost to replace the entire ignition? I know it is more difficult with tilt wheel and cruise control, so where should I go from here? THANKS!!!!!
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 01:42 PM
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I know people have put in a toggle switch, but do not know how. Try doing a search...you might come up with something! Good luck!
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 01:47 PM
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From: The Big House
Thanks for the information. I am currently doing an igniton search, but have not found my problem. I am going to keep looking!!!!

Thanks!
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 01:49 PM
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can you not replace the key ignition? If you can not fix it to stock version then i would be looking for a new steering column unit, which can be very expensive or go to your local junkyard. Another way, if your town is safe! you can set-up a MSD igintion system with a push button start, BUTTT! you will have to have switches for fuel pump, fan(if available), headlights, etc, etc.... basically a control panel inside your truck. good luck, cheers!
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 02:31 PM
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From: The Big House
Originally Posted by cje07
I know people have put in a toggle switch, but do not know how. Try doing a search...you might come up with something! Good luck!

Thanks for the advice. I am looking right now!!
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 03:41 PM
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Do you know which component is broken in the column? There is a small metal rod with a curved end that is notorious for snapping near the curved end in trucks and Broncos of this vintage. It requires taking apart a lot fo the column as I recall but is often the culprit in starting problems. The tumbler assembly pushes the rod down into the column where the end of the rod actuates the actual switchgear. The tumbler assembly is available aftermarket and is repalceable without removing the wheel in ost cases. The actuating rod is a Ford only part.
 
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Old Nov 2, 2004 | 04:06 PM
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Originally Posted by greystreak92
Do you know which component is broken in the column? There is a small metal rod with a curved end that is notorious for snapping near the curved end in trucks and Broncos of this vintage. It requires taking apart a lot fo the column as I recall but is often the culprit in starting problems. The tumbler assembly pushes the rod down into the column where the end of the rod actuates the actual switchgear. The tumbler assembly is available aftermarket and is repalceable without removing the wheel in ost cases. The actuating rod is a Ford only part.

I think it is the small rod in there. I felt it break when trying to start and then I began manually moving the rod down the front of the column. I don't mind starting it this way because it is almost like an anti-theft device. But now manually pushing the rod is not working. There in lies the problem!
 
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Old Nov 7, 2004 | 02:55 AM
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That rod is not all that hard to change. Find you a junk truck to take one from, near same model but as long as the column looks the same, it should match. Get you a book on your truck and follow the instructions. I've taken mine apart several times with no problems. Can advise you on the procedure if needed.
 
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Old Nov 7, 2004 | 06:24 AM
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HI

Go to ford they should have the actuator in stock they sell 1 every two to three days part #e9tz-3e715-b Last one i bought was in 2003 cost 12.10. Not bad to change you have to take two pins out of the tilt part and lift it up enough to be able to get to the rod.
 
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Old Nov 7, 2004 | 09:21 AM
  #11  
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From: The Big House
Originally Posted by Paul4545
HI

Go to ford they should have the actuator in stock they sell 1 every two to three days part #e9tz-3e715-b Last one i bought was in 2003 cost 12.10. Not bad to change you have to take two pins out of the tilt part and lift it up enough to be able to get to the rod.

undefinedThanks for the info. I will be working on it tomorrow.
 
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Old Nov 7, 2004 | 09:23 AM
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I installed a pushbutton switch between the wire running to the + coil wire of the starter solenoid and the fuse panel. This works great to turn starter motor over from the cab (I got tired of opening the hood every time to start). This works only if you are able to get power to ignition and other circuits using your key, your gauge lights should come on and you should hear the fuel pump, press the button and good to go!

I finally replaced the actuator (approx. 14.00 from Ford) and fixed the problem. It is nice to have everything operating again. I did however leave the pushbutton switch installed in case it is needed again. Replacing the actuator is a fairly simple task that is described many times in this and the F150 forum.

It is possible that even when replacing the actuator you have a problem with the ignition switch but you have to start somewhere. Ignition switches are very easy to find at the bone yard if needed latter.
 
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